Dear readers,
With Halloween just around the corner, it's the perfect time to refresh some Halloween etiquette guidelines to make the holiday spooky for the right reasons only.
Whether you're hosting a party, handing out candy, or trick-or-treating, these tips will help you navigate Halloween with grace and courtesy:
1. BE CONSIDERATE WITH COSTUMES
While the preparation of costumes and dressing up is certainly fun, always ensure your costume is creative yet respectful. Be mindful of cultural appropriation or anything that could be offensive to others.
After all, we all still remember the infamous costume worn by HRH Prince Harry in 2005.
2. AVOID HARSH PRANKS
Scaring someone is part of the fun, but avoid pranks that could seriously frighten or harm someone, especially those with severe health conditions. Keep it lighthearted and considerate as there is only a thin line between spooky and serious.
3. OFFER TREATS EVERYONE CAN ENJOY
In a world where nutrition speaks volumes, it is considered kind and thoughtful to offer different kinds of treats safe also for those with nut allergies, gluten or lactose intolerance. While it might not be mandatory, it will definitely make you the popular one among your neighbours. 
4. MONITOR YOUR PARTY VOLUME
If you’re hosting a Halloween bash (or any bash really), be mindful of noise levels. Inform your neighbours beforehand about your plans and remember to decrease the volume once it gets late as not everyone is in for the party.
5. RESPECT HOUSE SIGNALS
When trick-or-treating, always keep in mind that not everyone wishes to participate. If a home is not decorated or has its lights off, it’s a polite sign that they’re actually not participating. Always skip these houses without knocking.
Last but not least, it is very important to realise that not all countries actually celebrate Halloween. In some it might be more popular than in others, but we should never expect or force others to follow our customs at the expense of their own traditions. For example, around the same time as Halloween, some Eastern European countries celebrate All Saints Day instead by commemorating their deceased loved ones and visiting their graves.
I hope you will find these tips helpful and you will enjoy the festivities in a spooky yet respectful way!
Yours sincerely,
Katarina
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